Long-term unemployment

[rainforests1]

What advice would you give to the many people who have this problem?

 

[RascalsMom]

Depends on their situation.

 

[Clueless Git]

"Get a job" isn't the answer you're looking for?

Seriously - there must be scores of different reasons why different people are long term unemployed.

I don't think there is one piece of advice that anyone could give that fits all.

 

[Clueless Git]

Depends on their situation.

Exactly.

My personal reason is that I'm a fully qualified gas lamp lighter.

I'm just biding my time untill gas lamps come back.

 

[RascalsMom]

I think my advice to clueless would be to find a new trade.

 

[rainforests1]

Are there any good government programs that truly help the long-term unemployed? Do homeless shelters help with this kind of thing?

 

[yakherder]

Programs vary from state to state, as does qualifying criteria. But yes, most places have a variety of programs available ranging from interview or resume writing classes to direct job placement. They cannot, however, override the law of supply and demand. Your part involves molding yourself into a tool which is in demand, otherwise you're stuck competing with millions of other applicants for low wage work.

 

[Clueless Git]

I think my advice to clueless would be to find a new trade.

I tried.

I applied for the position of Queen of England.

Despite making it clear that I am prepared to undertake any training required I heard nothing back.

I'm now slightly suspicious that this highly paid public position may not be conforming to the equal opportunities act.

 

[ledboots]

Are there any good government programs that truly help the long-term unemployed? Do homeless shelters help with this kind of thing?

I think the best place to begin is your state unemployment office. They will help with resumes, interview tips, even interview clothing. They will guide you into finding training for in-demand jobs. Often a 2 year degree from a community college is cheap and can open many doors.

The main thing is to take that first step and keep following it up with the next step, then the next, and before you know it, you have a job and can complain about the taxes and stuff.